source of creativity

Been pondering on this subject a bit lately after hearing that 'creativity' is a problem amongst students in Asia. There is even a book about it: "Why Asians are Less Creative than Westerners" by Ng Aik Kwang. Haven't gotten around to finding a copy to read yet, but will be looking into it.

So what is creativity exactly and what does it stem from? Is it just one's personal drive to be original? How does one define 'originailty' in the creative process? What factors play a role in shaping it? developing it? supressing it? And why are Westerners more creative than Asians? A large part of it, I think, has to do with the business market and its demands on creativity. If there is not much demand for it, then there is less invested and less progress made.

In the States and Europe, the marketing of a product is focused largely on the originality and/or functionality of a design. In parts of Asia, I find that the focus seems to be more on the price. Why put effort into research and development of a design when someone else has already done it? They can create something similiar for cheaper, which will sell just as well or better than the original item because of its lower selling point. There is no need to invest in the originality of a design when one can still make a profit without it.

How does this affect students and people who are interested in working for these businesses in design? Unfortunately, they tend to conform to a job description that not does necessitate them to think creatively.

Another factor is the amount of diversity in the West. Through interactions with people of other cultures and backgrounds, there is more exposure to different ideas, leading to an openess to understanding. Exploring these influences develops creativity. When there is less of these types of interactions, I think the progress of creativity is truly hindered.